Storm Team4 is keeping an eye on widespread rain that hit the Washington, D.C., area on Saturday. Heavy rainfall could lead to flooding, and some weekend events have been postponed.
One to 2.5 inches or more is expected to fall across the D.C. area. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch. You can see all severe weather alerts here.
“We are expecting widespread showers for a good chunk of the day,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Jessica Faith said.
The rain mostly affects any plans for Saturday morning and early afternoon. The Wharf rescheduled their Bloomaroo spring festival to Saturday, March 30 because of the forecast. National Landing's Pink in the Park has been postponed, as well.
We're making it easier for you to find stories that matter with our new newsletter — The 4Front. Sign up here and get news that is important for you to your inbox.
Rain timing
Rain moved in late Friday from the south. The most widespread showers fell on Saturday morning.
Storm Team4's radar showed many areas with heavy rain between 7 and 11 a.m.
Rain is expected to decrease in coverage and intensity later in the afternoon. The rain will begin to move out in the evening.
"If you want to make any plans for Saturday, the later the better -- especially after sunset," Faith said.
So, your dinner plans should be fine. Keep an umbrella on hand for any lingering wet weather.
This forecast has a silver lining if you've been waiting to see the cherry blossoms along the Tidal Basin. The cool weather is helping the delicate flowers hang on, and it will likely still be worth visiting the blooms on Sunday.
Flood watch issued
A flood watch is in effect from Friday night to Saturday afternoon, the National Weather Service said. The flood watch covers much of the D.C. area, including:
- Washington, D.C.
- Calvert, Charles, Frederick, Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in Maryland
- Arlington County, Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax County, Loudoun County and Prince William County, in Northern Virginia
Watch out for excessive water in flood-prone locations including near rivers and in areas with poor drainage.
